An evening traffic accident this Wednesday resulted in three fatalities in the municipality of Guáimaro, located in the province of Camagüey, according to official media reports. The incident occurred when a homemade vehicle collided with a private truck for reasons that are still unknown.
The victims have been identified as David González Sánchez, César Velázquez Hernández, and Erisdel Juviel Morel, all residents of Guáimaro. It has not been clarified in which of the vehicles the victims were traveling.
On social media, friends and family of the deceased have expressed their grief over the tragic event, which has brought sudden sorrow to three families.
"Today, once again, a traffic accident has taken three sons from my beloved Guáimaro: César Velázquez, David, and Erisdel Juviel. The entire town mourns their departure. It took me more than 30 minutes, between tears and pain, to write these words. I can't fathom the despair and anguish felt by these families, whom I've known and admired since childhood. I can't write more due to the overwhelming sadness... I still can't believe they're gone," wrote Diosdani Margendie in an emotional post.
"In a tragic accident this afternoon, our brother, friend, and companion Erisdel Juviel Morel lost his life. It's a heavy blow for all of us. I have so much to say about him today; I just know he'll always remain with us, our beloved 'crazy' but very responsible friend, cherished by everyone in Guáimaro. A hug from your brothers. Rest in peace," shared Damián Danilo Zamora in another heartfelt message.
"Your departure has left a deep pain in my heart, but I also feel immense gratitude for the time we shared. I will always remember you with love and gratitude, brother. Moments like these are soul-crushing, not to mention the suffering of the other families. I grew up with César Velázquez, and David was a tremendous friend personally, but you are my blood," wrote Jeider E. Mujica in a touching tribute to Erisdel Juviel Morel.
The authorities are working to determine the causes behind this tragic collision. As of the close of this report, no further details have been provided about the incident.
Rising Number of Traffic Accidents in Cuba
In recent weeks, there has been an alarming increase in serious traffic accidents across the country, many unfortunately resulting in fatalities.
In the case of Camagüey, one of the most notable incidents was the death of four people, including a minor, in a severe accident in early July on the road to Santa Lucía beach in the municipality of Nuevitas, located in the northern part of the province.
Although the public perceives a rise in traffic accidents in recent months, Cuban authorities stated at the beginning of July that the first half of 2024 saw 543 fewer incidents compared to the same period last year.
In the official TV program Mesa Redonda, Colonel Roberto Rodríguez Fernández, head of the Specialized Traffic Organ of the Ministry of the Interior (MININT), also reported 81 fewer deaths (a 23% reduction) and 151 fewer injuries (a 5% reduction) between January and June of this year, compared to the same period in 2023.
Frequently Asked Questions About Traffic Accidents in Cuba
The recent surge in traffic accidents in Cuba, including the tragic incident in Camagüey, has raised many questions. Here are some frequently asked questions to provide more clarity on the issue.
What caused the accident in Guáimaro?
The exact cause of the collision between the homemade vehicle and the private truck in Guáimaro is still under investigation by authorities.
Who were the victims of the Guáimaro accident?
The victims were identified as David González Sánchez, César Velázquez Hernández, and Erisdel Juviel Morel, all residents of Guáimaro.
Is there an increase in traffic accidents in Cuba?
Yes, there has been a noticeable increase in serious traffic accidents across Cuba in recent weeks, although official reports suggest a decrease in incidents compared to last year.
What measures are authorities taking to address the rise in accidents?
Authorities are investigating the causes of accidents and have reported a reduction in fatalities and injuries in the first half of 2024 compared to the previous year. However, specific measures being taken were not detailed in the reports.